On average, the region gets its first freeze of the season on Nov. 22, but it has come as early as Oct. 22 and as late as Jan. 4.

But whether the first freeze is early, late or right on schedule, you’ll want to make sure your home is ready for winter — especially because one forecast predicts “teeth-chattering” cold.

Dallas' Office of Emergency Management suggests these eight tips to prepare your home for the season:

Check smoke detectors and fire extinguishers

Smoke alarms should be tested once a month, and batteries should be replaced at least once per year, according to the American Red Cross. The U.S. Fire Administration suggests replacing smoke alarms 10 years after the date of manufacture. Homeowners in Dallas who are in need of a smoke alarm can call 311 to request one for free.

As temperatures drop and the holidays approach, having a fire extinguisher is important in an emergency involving a fireplace or oven.

Clean your chimney and fireplace

Taking care of your chimney and fireplace will help prevent any fire-related emergencies. Doing it now also means that you'll be set when temperatures really drop and you’re ready to light some logs and curl up next to the fire.

Check windows and doors

Inspect your doors and windows for leaks to make sure they’re sealed properly. Inspect your HVAC system and consider cleaning filters or replacing them if enough debris has built up.

Inspect your roof

Rhonda Simpson, a Dallas OEM spokeswoman, said you’ll want to check your roof for any debris, "especially after all of this rain." Check for are any signs of damage and take a close look at shingles.

Wrap indoor pipes

Wrapping your pipes will prevent them from freezing when the cold really hits. This is especially important for pipes in unheated areas of your home. Because North Texas winters aren’t typically too brutal, cheap foam pipe insulation should suffice, according to HouseLogic.com.

Inspect your home’s heating system

Simpson said it’s important to make sure your home’s heating system is properly functioning before temperatures dip. If you see some issues, consult an HVAC expert.

Check for odd smells, but know that a burning smell might be normal — it can be caused by dust collected in your home’s air ducts. That isn’t always the case, though, so you should make sure the smell isn’t coming from something else.

Finish seasonal yard maintenance

In the fall, you should overseed new lawn or spots in your lawn that aren’t looking good, according to Better Homes & Gardens. It’s also important to use fall grass fertilizer for your lawn, and rake leaves.

Stock up on supplies

Now is the time to prepare for a weather emergency, Simpson said. Essential supplies include flashlights, nonperishable food, a first-aid kit, water and a fire extinguisher.

Take an inventory of what you have, what you don’t and what’s running low. The Dallas OEM also suggests securing useful supplies such as warm clothes, a radio, charger, sleeping bags and tools. Personal items to secure include prescriptions, personal documents, toiletries and pet items.